Forget the pepper spray—These pups will have your back (and your heart)!

An excellent guard dog is not defined only by size. And it’s not just about the loudest bark. True canine guardians share a few critical and non-negotiable traits: intelligence, quiet confidence, ...

Parade Pets and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article. For those with children, choosing the right dog often comes down to finding the right balance between protection and temperament.

Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), some dog breeds have a natural instinct to protect their owners and households.